Family Sponsorship & Financial Sponsor
Ever dreamed of reuniting with family in the US but worried your income might not be enough to sponsor them? The good news is, you can team up with a joint sponsor to make it happen! Let's explore how this works.
Why Sponsoring Matters
When you sponsor a family member for a green card, you're promising to financially support them. The US wants to make sure they won't become a public burden, so they require sponsors to show they have enough income.
Enter the Affidavit of Support
This is the official form (I-864) where you show your financial might. Here's the catch: if your income alone isn't enough (based on household size and federal poverty guidelines), you can use a joint sponsor to boost your financial firepower.
How to Find Your Partner-in-Sponsorship
Your joint sponsor can be anyone! A friend, family member (outside the one you're sponsoring), or even a neighbor – as long as they're a US citizen or green card holder, live in the US, and meet the income requirements themselves.
Teaming Up: The Steps
File the Petition: First things first, submit the appropriate petition for your family member (like Form I-130 for immediate relatives).
You Still Need Your I-864: Even with a joint sponsor, you'll complete your own I-864 form showing your income and mentioning the joint sponsor.
Finding Your Champion: Look for a US citizen or green card holder with stable income who's willing to be your joint sponsor.
The Joint Sponsor Steps Up: They'll also complete their own I-864 form with proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, employer letter).
Gather Your Proof: Don't forget to include supporting documents like recent tax returns and proof of your legal US status for both sponsorships.
Consulate or Adjustment? Depending on where your family member is (inside or outside the US), they'll either apply through a US embassy/consulate or USCIS.
Remember: It's a Commitment
Sponsoring someone is a big responsibility. Both you and your joint sponsor are legally obligated to support the immigrant until they become a US citizen, work for 10 years, or leave permanently.
Bonus Tips:
Household Help: If other adults in your household want to chip in, they can use Form I-864A to show their contribution.
Life Happens: If your or your joint sponsor's financial situation changes significantly, let USCIS or the consulate know to avoid issues.
The Bottom Line
Sponsoring a family member can be a wonderful way to unite your family. If your income alone isn't enough, don't despair! The option of a joint sponsor opens the door to reuniting with loved ones and building a future together in the US.